27 September 2024 – Harvey Road Tavern, Gladstone – words by Brad Fry
The Harvey Road Tavern in Gladstone was buzzing with anticipation as Aussie rock legends Grinspoon bought their Whatever Whenever Wherever tour to town. Supported by the dynamic Press Club, the venue (packed with an enthusiastic crowd) pulsed with an electric atmosphere that set the tone for an unforgettable night of live music. For weeks now, discussions in local music and non music circles had centred around tonights show. It isn’t everyday that a band like Grinspoon grace our small community and as a result the prospect had locals frothing from the first rumblings of the tour! The Gladstone locals showed up in force and the lines outside the doors were huge, well before they officially opened. The demographic for the show was wide ranging and was a testament to the reach of Grinspoon’s music and the connection the band have with their fans both new and old. To say we were in for a real treat would be a massive understatement and the fact that the show has been sold out for weeks suggests that both Grinspoon and Press Club are due for the same!
Press Club kicked off the evening with a high-energy set that immediately grabbed the crowd’s attention. Frontwoman Natalie Foster’s fierce vocals and commanding stage presence drew everyone closer to the stage, while the band’s raw, punk-infused sound filled the room. Tracks like ‘Eugene’ and ‘Headwreck’ were delivered with unbridled passion, and the crowd responded with a sea of nodding heads and raised fists. The chemistry between the band members was obvious with relentless drumbeats, driving basslines, and jangly guitars creating a powerful wall of sound. At one point Nat jumped the barrier and took her microphone into the crowd bringing the fans closer to the action then they were previously. No pressure saw Nat don her Ibanez and handle rhythm duties while Greg Rietwyk wailed away with his notes hitting every corner of the room. Iain MacRae on bass and Frank Lees on drums formed a formidable rhythm section that chugged on all night like a well oiled machine. Press Club are a powerhouse band and were the perfect openers for tonight’s show. They left the audience fired up and ready for more. More, more, more!
The only thing louder than the audience’s rendition of Boz Scaggs’ ‘Lido Shuffle’ was the roar as Grinspoon hit the stage, the room erupted! The band launched into their set with the kind of energy and swagger that has defined their 30-year career. Phil Jamieson, ever the charismatic frontman, strutted across the stage with infectious confidence, belting out hit after hit with a voice that hasn’t lost its gritty edge. The crowd was immediately swept up, singing along to every word.
The set list was a who’s who of Grinspoon hits with some new material from their latest album thrown in for good measure. ‘Chemical Heart’, ‘Just Ace’, ‘Lost Control’, ‘Don’t Change’ the list goes on and so could I. The band was in fine form, with guitarist Pat Davern ripping through solos and bassist Joe Hansen locking into a tight groove with drummer Kristian Hopes. The sound was big, bold, and beautifully balanced, filling the tavern with a timeless vibe that had long-time fans reminiscing and newcomers hooked from the first chord. Jameson lamented their time away from Central Queensland (6 years) but given the response and turnout I think it is safe to say all is forgiven.
Jamieson’s playful banter with the audience added a personal touch, making the show feel like a big, wild gathering of old friends. He mentioned that $35 is too much for a movie ticket and he’s right (seems the “Gladstone Tax” affects everyone and not just the locals). One of the many standout moments was the big thanks to Press Club from Grinspoon and dedicating ‘Hard Act To Follow’ to them. The performance of ‘Hard Act to Follow’ was impressive with the crowd’s singing nearly drowning out the band and Davern and Jameson swapping guitar parts just prior to the solo. The lighting and sound were spot on, enhancing the raw energy of the performance without overshadowing it.
Nat from Press Club joined Grinspoon on stage for a haunting rendition of ‘Underground (Hell On Wheels)’ and the crowd loved it. Said crowd were a vibrant mix of young and old, a sea of smiling faces, jumping bodies, and pumping fists—a testament to Grinspoon’s cross-generational appeal. As the final notes of ‘More Than You Are’ rang out and the confetti rained down, the crowd’s roar of appreciation was deafening. Grinspoon had delivered a masterclass in rock ‘n’ roll, reminding everyone why they remain one of Australia’s most beloved bands. The night ended on a high, with the audience buzzing long after the band had left the stage, already talking about when they’d get to do it all again.
Overall, the evening was a triumphant celebration of Australian rock, with Press Club and Grinspoon delivering performances that were nothing short of exhilarating. The Harvey Road Tavern’s intimate setting amplified the energy and passion of the night both on and off stage. As I walked to my car all the locals I passed were talking about the show and how good it was. When the dust (or in this case, the confetti) settles the record will state that tonight’s show was one of Gladstone’s proudest rock moments. Whatever, Whenever, Wherever…. Grinspoon and Press Club…. came, saw and (most certainly) conquered!
